A Barking Treefrog is one of about 14 species of frogs that can be found in Florida scrub.

Special to the

Highlands Sun

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VENUS –– Archbold Biological Station invites the public to take an amphibious adventure and learn about the many species of frogs and toads that revel in rainy weather and nightly fill the sky with their wonderfully varied calls and croaks.

Dr. Betsie Rothermel, Archbold Herpetology Program Director, will give a brief presentation on the amphibians living in Florida scrub habitats, on Sunday, Feb. 26, starting at 1:30 p.m. in the Frances Archbold Hufty Learning Center at Archbold. Weather permitting, she will then lead a nature hike to a couple of seasonal ponds used by amphibians for breeding.

“Participants can try sampling for tadpoles while learning about the ways amphibians cope with natural environmental stressors, such as fluctuating water levels, predatory fish and invertebrates, and the occasional scrub fire,” Rothermel said.

Adventurers should come prepared to walk at least a half mile on sand roads to get to the ponds. Hats, water bottles, and sunscreen are highly recommended, as are closed-toe shoes. For anyone who really wants to wade in a bit deeper, we recommend old sneakers and quick-dry pants.

Archbold Biological Station is an independent, not-for-profit research facility whose mission is to build and share the scientific knowledge needed to protect the life, lands, and waters of the heart of Florida and beyond.

Archbold Biological Station is at 123 Main Drive and is eight miles south of Lake Placid. The entrance is 1.8 miles south of S.R. 70 on Old S.R. 8. Visit www.archbold-station.org for more information or phone 863-465-2571 during business hours.